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More than 50 artists recorded a special version of Clegg’s soulful track, “The Crossing.”

Over 50 prominent artists came together to record a tribute to Johnny Clegg, a true South African legend who has made and continues to make an indelible mark on music history. The song and accompanying video, filmed at the gathering in September, were played to Johnny for the very first time at a private event on 5th December 2018, where he performed for friends and lifelong fans at the luxury boutique hotel, Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, Cape Town.

Paul Bruce-Brand, Ellerman House’s General Manager and passionate music lover said, “This was an extremely unique, powerful performance which culminated in one of our final ‘Ellerman Sessions’ of the year. These intimate sessions embrace South African talent with fervor, offering a series of personal-storytelling evenings with local icons, from platinum-selling musicians to award-winning chefs. What a story Johnny Clegg has to share – filled with emotional tales of struggle and hardship, yet characterized by an overriding sense of joy, humor, hope and passion for this country.”

Singer, songwriter, dancer, anthropologist and musical activist, Johnny Clegg’s infectious crossover music — a vibrant blend of Western pop and African Zulu rhythms — exploded onto the international scene and broke through barriers in South Africa. In an award-winning career spanning over three decades, he has sold over five million albums worldwide, bringing people from all backgrounds together.

When the special version of “The Crossing” was unveiled on the 5th of December at Ellerman House, Johnny Clegg remarked, “I am speechless, thank you so much. This is an amazing moment for me – to have so many of my peers acknowledge the song and its sentiments, and that they can use that to further something much bigger than all of us. Thank you.”

The same evening saw the launch of Friends of Johnny Clegg, a fund created in Johnny’s honour to help alleviate the education crisis in South Africa. All proceeds from downloads of this special version of “The Crossing” will go toward this fund. These proceeds will be distributed by the Click Foundation, which targets young learners with an online phonetics-based programme in centers across the country, ultimately aimed at creating a better future for the youth of South Africa — a cause close to Johnny’s heart.

Paul Bruce-Brand explained how it all transpired: “Roddy Quin, Kahn Morbee, Karen Zoid, Theo Crous, my team and I, together with the other artists in our lineup wanted to do something special to honour all that Johnny has done and continues to do for music and South Africa. Given that our owner, Paul Harris has a vision for Ellerman House and is passionate about South Africa, it was natural for us to back an ambitious collaborative project. Never could we have imagined that it would snowball into something as large as it did. Before we knew it, everyone, from far and wide, wanted to participate. Local artists performed alongside acclaimed international artists Dave Matthews, Peter Gabriel and Mike Rutherford. It proved to be an overwhelming testament to Johnny Clegg and indicated the extent to which he has touched people’s lives through his music.”

On 10 September 2018, many of South Africa’s most popular and influential artists flew into Cape Town to share their time and talent in recording their own version of Johnny Clegg’s “The Crossing” at Mothership Studios. The song was produced by Theo Crous and mastered in Los Angeles by Lurssen, a multi Grammy award-winning studio. Emotions were high, with smiles all round and a wonderful sense of camaraderie amongst fellow artists and friends, brought together by their desire to pay tribute and express their love and admiration for the great Johnny Clegg.

The Red Hot Events team thatput together the annual line-up forJägermeister presents Up The Creek is renowned for selecting the most talented gems of South African bands and artists, to ensure that every Up The Creek is an exceptional memorable live music experience. Think a cool, flowing river, wide open skies, rolling hills and sunny creeks with beautiful people coming together for a weekend of carefree fun, play and music. A perfect summer getaway!

For your 2019 music pleasure, the following bands and artists are first in line of many more to be revealed:

Koos Kombuis makes his return to Up The Creek after many years. Koos will be opening the Main Stage for Up the Creek on Thursday evening, as continuation of the tradition that industry legends open the festival.

The young rock trio Zengeance won the first ever Savanna Sessions at Up the Creek 2018. This competition was hosted on the Thursday of Up the Creek 2018 and the judges were an array of high profile industry legends. The prize for this competition was a slot on the Up the Creek 2019 Main Stage.

One of the 2018 Up The Creek highlights, BRYNN, will be back with their alternative, folk-rock dynamite next year. Frontman Jules Terea says: “We've been frothing for Up The Creek 2019 since the second we walked off the stage at the last one. It's a one of a kind festival and the opportunity to perform our music for such kind, loving and generous people as those who attend Up The Creek, is one that we live for.”

George Kirkinis from The Steezies (that delicious, new-ish “Zulu funk” band who describe themselves as a full force energy train of Afro-ish/Funk-ish/Indie-ish vibes) says that is it a dream for them to be playing at Up The Creek again next year: “It`s a beautiful festival that showcases the best of South Africa's musical talent in an absolutely amazing setting. For lovers of live music, it's hard to do better than this. It is an honour for us to be sharing the stage with many of our musical idols, and we cannot wait to give it our all and then sit back and enjoy a weekend of brilliant music on the Breede River!”

More bands to be announced in October.

If you have not been to Up The Creek before, or if you are a regular Creeker with mid-year brain fog and need a reminder, check out the official after movie of Jägermeister presentsUp The Creek 2018 to get you excited and in the mood for 2019`s festival: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pgBVEcbQQg

Join some of SA`s top artists for the annual Liefde by die Dam Concert at Emmarentia Dam on Sunday August 5th. Liefde by die Dam, named after Valiant Swart's famous hit song with the same name, strives to serve as a platform to showcase the best local music. The program features music for young and old, which makes it an ideal day out with your family or ‘besties’. In partnership with Jacaranda FM, more music you love.

Die Heuwels Fantasties, Karlien van Jaarsveld, Francois van Coke, Bouwer Bosch and Elvis Blue have all been making headlines in the past few years with the release of new singles and albums and they have collectively won numerous prestigious local music awards. Add to this already impressive line-up, one of SA`s most influential singers, the legendary Koos Kombuis, the captivating new face of Afro-Folk Bongeziwe Mabandla, as well as the very popular Jacaranda FM presenter and singer Martin Bester, and the stage is set for a fantastic, memorable concert.

Pierre Greeff from Die Heuwels Fantasties says that Liefde by die Dam is a very special event. “A concert with a phenomenal line up, and we also aim to pay some love forward. Bring your own picnic blanket and leave it behind after the concert. The Liefde Wen team will make sure that the blankets find new homes where needed.”

Line-up:

Gates open at 10h00.

11:00 - Martin Bester

11:40 - Bouwer Bosch

12:25 - Bongeziwe Mabandla

13:30 - Karlien van Jaarsveld.

14:30 - Koos Kombuis.

15:15 - Elvis Blue

16:15 - Die Heuwels Fantasties

17:15 - Francois van Coke

For your day out at the dam there will be a delicious range of South Africa’s best artisan food traders. You can also bring your own picnic baskets.

Renowned for the organising of Up The Creek, one of the Western Cape`s most loved music festivals, the Red Hot Events team also introduced a wild and wonderful new boutique-festival two years ago: Savanna presents River Republic. Set at the same river, on the plush lawns next to a beautiful creek, this new little festival embodies that pina-colada-hidden-paradise-kind-of-awesome-party that we all dream of. Take a break and escape to the River Republic for the coolest getaway party with your best friends and most loved local DJ`s and bands. The line-up for this year is such a delight, we think for the love of grand sunsets, we`ve got it just right!

To keep the good times rolling, we are also bringing you some live comedy over the weekend:Anne Hirschis your MC on Saturday and comedianKagiso Mokagadiwill be providing us with good laughs.

On arrival you will be greeted with afree ice coldSavannaas you jump on the shuttle down to the festival. Just the thing to get your weekend started and well deserved after your drive!

Mexican madness hour: When a band likeLos Tacoscomes along you just want to get your groove on. With a mix of Latina and Capetonian blood, their catchy Latin American tunes will shake up the river banks. Don your sombreros, sip on tequila flavoured Savanna Locos and hula, hula people, let`s party!

Due to the enormous popularity of the 2016 Windhoek Oktoberfest, Namibia Breweries and Events and More have decided to run this year`s festivities over the whole weekend from Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd October 2017. The weekend promises a perfect combination of excellent Namibian Beer, great German food, games & activities and world-class entertainment. Friday night is for over 18`s only and on Saturday and Sunday you can bring your kids for a great family day out.

Oktoberfest is the world`s largest beer festival, celebrated annually in Munich, Germany. The first Oktoberfest was held in the the year 1810 in honour of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Over the centuries it has grown to be one of the most important traditional festivities in the Bavarian culture. Other cities across the world also hold Oktoberfest celebrations that are modelled on the original Munich event.

Here in South Africa, one of the most incredible venues in Cape Town, Hillcrest Quarry in Durbanville Winelands, will play host to the official Windhoek Oktoberfest Cape Town brought to you by Namibian Breweries. The opening night on Friday 20th 2017 will be sold per table of 8 and is ideal for team building, a special client event or just getting a group of good friends and family together for a fun filled experience. Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd October 2017 will be family days with extra activities available for the kids.

Fest Beer:

The opening of the keg will take place onFriday night. With the exclamation “O`zapft is!” (“It`s tapped!”), the first beer is handed to the mayor or representative of the city, who then declares the Windhoek Oktoberfest in Cape Town officially open. This is a special "Festbier" available which is brewed specially for the Oktoberfest by braumeister Christian Müller. This authentic German beer is brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot, the 1516 Bavarian Purity Law.

The Kirchdorfer band will be performing:

They have been the official band in the "Hacker-Festzelt" at the Octoberfest in Munich since 1994 and will be flying in straight from there to perform at the Windhoek Oktoberfest in Cape Town.

Schuhplattler dancers:

Schuhplattler is a traditional style of folk dance. In this dance, the performers stomp, clap and strike the soles of their shoes (Schuhe), thighs and knees with their hands held flat (platt).

Traditional Food:

It’s hard to compete with hearty melt-in-your-mouth German dishes which complement your beer perfectly. Hartlief, well known for its comprehensive variety of high quality meats will be serving up traditional specialities bringing the taste of the Munich Festival right to your door-step. Look forward to traditional Eisbein, Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut und Senf and roast chicken to mention a few.

Activities:

Saturday and Sunday will also include performances by The Kirchdorfer band and Schuplatter Dancers, as well as performances by another two traditional bands that will be playing contemporary German tunes. Typical to a traditional fair, there will also be lots of games including "Stamm-sägen" (Log-Sawing), "Bierstemmen" (Beer-Lifting), "Hau den Lukas" (High Striker), Nageln, Beer Pong and Catty shooting.

Join us at this year’s annual Oyster and Champagne Festivalon 14th and 15th October at Hillcrest Quarry in Durbanville and get a good dose of delectable oysters, coupled with fabulous Champagne, good music and an upmarket selection of foods and treats.

Our theme is Gold and White, dress up and stand a chance to win the prizes for the best dressed couple.

Difference between Champagne, MCCs and Sparkling Wines: For those of us that need this clarified here is some helpful information:

Champagne:

Can only be made using grapes grown in Champagne, a province in north eastern France. Regardless of the method used to make it, anything else is simply not Champagne. We are thrilled to announce that Moëtwill be featured at the Oyster and Champagne Festival representing French Champagne at its best.

MCC is the South African version of Champagne. MCC is made using the original, bottle fermented process used by the French. Every step of the process aside from the grapes, is the real deal. The quality of our grapes coupled with the expertise of our wine makers is such that our MCCs rival some of the best French champagnes. Featured at this year’s event we are delighted to have on board a selection of prestigious local MCCs to name a few Villiera, Haute Cabriere, Pierre Jordan, JC Le Roux, Pongracz and Krone.

International Wines

You are in for a treat as featured amongst our bubbly’s we also have the pleasure of welcoming the exquisite Italian Prosecco and Spanish Cava to this year’s event.

With all this talk about champagne we better not forget to add in some interesting facts about those well-loved oysters. Surprisingly, there is a lot we don’t know about this tasty morsel, save for the idea that you eat them raw, accompanied by champagne.

Did You Know…………

Ø In 2005 research supported the view that oysters contain a rare amino acid that has been linked to reproductive success. So now we know how Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love who sprang forth from the sea on an oyster shell and promptly gave birth to Eros got it right.

Ø Oysters are "alternating hermaphrodites", which means they can switch sexes from time to time.

Ø Only about one in 10,000 oysters contains a pearl.

Ø The verb 'to shuck', meaning to remove the shell from an oyster, was first recorded in 1881.

Ø The saying "the world's your oyster" comes from Shakespeare's Merry Wives of Windsor: "The world's mine oyster. Which I with sword will open."

Ø Worldwide, around two billion pounds of oysters are eaten every year.

Celebrity Chef:Sue-Ann Allen became a household name in 2012 as the runner-up in the 1st season of MasterChef South Africa. For three months MasterChef episodes introduced her love for food and ‘never give up’ attitude to people around the country.We are delighted to announce that Sue-Ann, together with another 2 chefs, will be demonstrating the preparation of mouth-watering recipes over the weekend. Look forward to delights such as Baked Oysters with spinach and bacon, Fresh Oysters with candied orange and an onion mint gel and Oyster Tataki with pickled ginger, spring onion, crispy noodle, coriander and Asian style dressing, to name a few.

Non-alcoholic drinks:For the festivalgoers that prefer a non -alcoholic drink,Uber Flavourswill be there with their all-natural rooibos craft ice tea. They have four variants, namely Apple and Cinnamon, Honey and Lemon, Mango and Vanilla, and Berry and Buchu. Their teas are halal and kosher, and most diabetic people can drink them too as they contain no added sugar.

Food vendors: Moëtwill be working closely with our popular sushi provider creating platters that include a selection of fresh delectable sushi served with chilled champagne.Scandalous Foodswill be there providing a selection of gourmet burgers, pita’s and wraps andWahine Food Truckwho were a firm favourite last year will once again be dishing up their famous fish and chips, curries and wraps.

Gelato on the Go will be at the Oyster and Champagne Festival this year featuring the well-loved Italian ice-cream Gelato. This year they are also introducing their glamorous mini gelato cone which is made with the same Italian Gelato ice-cream but put onto mini sugar cones and coated in chocolate.Yummy we cannot wait to taste this awesome summer treat!

So now that you have all the facts that you could possibly need book your ticket now and start planning your winning outfit.

Saturday 14th October 2017 and Sunday 15thOctober 2017, gates open at 12h00.

Tickets sold via Computicket at R160 per person includes a branded champagne glass and 5 free tasting coupons (no under 18’s). Glasses and coupons will be available to purchase during the event.

One of South Africa`s most innovative and energetic live actsDie Heuwels Fantasties joins forces on stage with legendary songstress,Laurika Rauch,the super talented Loki Rothman and Jo Black, the “Afrikaans hipster” whose debut video went viral in 2016.

Join these remarkable artists for one night at the Grand Arena and share their love for fantastic music at this magnificent venue.

Die Heuwels Fantasties is one of those rare local gems that captured the hearts and party-spirits of fans across the age spectrum nationwide. Concertgoers can look forward to hearing brand-new songs from their newly released fifth studio album “OKAY!” on the night. Pierre Greeff from Die Heuwels says: “We are very excited about this show - we have always wanted to share a stage with Laurika Rauch. It`s going to be great fun. See you there!”

Laurika Rauch has been one of South Africa`s most renowned Afrikaans singers since her debut album was released in 1979. Her hit single from this time, “Kinders van die Wind”, still lives on almost forty years after its release. Titles on Laurika`s latest album “Reis”, which was released in September 2016, include a moving version of André Swiegers’ song “Blou”, which she recorded with Loki Rothman, as well as a lovely take on Die Heuwels Fantasties` hit single “Klein Tambotieboom.” Concertgoers will have the privilege of seeing these songs come to life in a rare coming together of these incredible artists.

Jo Black touches hearts and minds and has become somewhat of a phenomenon with his signature brand of positive thinking through his “Be that Guy” campaign. His also became an overnight musical success as the “Afrikaans hipster” whose music video went viral earlier this year. The single “Skepe” has had over a million hits on Youtube to date.

Add the remarkable talents of the versatile guitar virtuoso,Loki Rothman, to the already intriguing line-up and the concert promises to be a very special experience. Loki has mastered most existing musical genres on guitar and his captivating voice paints breath-taking landscapes with his original lyrics.

The ATKV Oesfees at Solms-Delta, Franschhoek, will be celebrating another year’s successful wine harvest on Saturday, 25 March 2017. Join the workers of the valley, along with thousands of other music, food and wine lovers to share in the joy of a diverse cultural event, featuring some of the finest homegrown musicians, as well as some of South Africa’s most popular artists and bands.

The Franschhoek valley has a rich and lively music culture. The local Music van de Caab project, sponsored by Solms-Delta and Boschendal, under the leadership of the brilliant Adriaan Brand of Springbok Nude Girls, seeks to preserve and develop the diverse musical heritage of the rural Cape, including the fostering of local musical talent. The Music van de Caab acts that will be performing at the ATKV Oesfees include the Klein-Handjies Pre-school Choir and the “Kaapse Klopse”-style walking band, Langbroeke; a female choir ensemble Die Soetstemme;the Delta Valley Entertainers and the Lekker Lekker Delta group. Top South African talents who will be sharing the stage include the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Radio Kalahari Orkes, Manouche, Nick Turner, Riku Lätti, Bacchus Nel, Jackie Lätti, Hannes Coetzee, Die Papier Familie Orkes, Akkedis,Les Javan, Hemelbesem and Yoma, Brain Cloete, Churchil Naudé,Die Wasgoedlyn and Tribal Echo. A special treat this year will be a performance by the African Jazz Pioneers.

An annual ATKV Oesfees highlight is a performance by winners of the ATKV Riel Dance Final. The Betjies from Betjiesfontein were the winners of the ATKV 2016 Riel Dance competition in the Junior category and will take to the stage to entertain with their impressive footwork. Previous winners,The Graskoue Trappers (photo top) are also on the line-up.

This year marks a very special occasion as the ATKV Oesfees reaches its 10th year milestone. Mark Solms from Solms-Delta says: “When we launched the ATKV Oesfees in 2008, we were not sure how it would turn out. But the celebration turned out better than we could have dreamt and the festival just keeps on growing. We proudly share our love for everything that unites us in this beautiful land, with our music and food and wine, and our deepest and best hopes for the years to come.”

The ATKV’s objectives are to further Afrikaans and provide a cultural home for Afrikaans people. Afrikaans is one of the strongest indigenous languages in Africa, and creates exceptional opportunities for nation building, development and letting the South African landscape thrive. To do this with partners, further enhances the potential for success. Therefore, the cooperation with Solms-Delta is an excellent opportunity for the ATKV to celebrate Afrikaans and turn objectives into achievements, “says Japie Gouws, Managing director of the ATKV group.

Traditional food and excellent wines from theSolms-Delta farm will be on sale. There will be a special area for kids, managed by a professional events company,Cre8tive Kids.Children are registered and are looked after inside a specially fenced, safe area. They can look forward to playful activities all day.

Come join the special people ofSolms-Deltafor this annual gathering filled with thanksgiving and good cheer.

Ticket prices:

Earlybird: R99: January 2017 to14 February 2017.

Presales: R120: 15 February to 24 March 2017.

Tickets at the gate: R150: On day of event.

Kids 2 – 12: R40: Earlybird, presales and at gate.

Kids under 2: R1: Babies also get tagged so that the organizers have an exact count of all the festivalgoers.

Creekers, pack your swimsuits, grab your floaty and get into the summertime spirit -Jägermeister presents Up The Creek 2017 is around the corner and you need to start flexing those festival muscles! For the past 26 years, Jägermeister presents Up The Creek has managed to remain small and intimate while growing in reputation and attracting some of South Africa’s best live acts, which has earned it the rightful moniker as the country’s ‘finest little festival’.

Situated on the banks of the breath-taking Breede River just outside of Swellendam, the spectacular grounds offer a singular waterside experience, which truly comes into its own at the unique Sedgwicks Old Brown River Stage. Here, bands play to the crowd from a stage that is built on the banks on the river, while revellers are free to spend their time bobbing up and down in the river on all manner of lilos and weird and wonderful flotation devices. Life does not get much better than this: fun, friends, music, swimming, partying, dancing and all round good vibes only!

SO, WHO’S PLAYING?

Twenty one acts have been confirmed so far, including Dan Patlansky, The Black Cat Bones, Albert Frost, Rubber Duc, Slow Jack, Ben Dey and the Concrete Lions, The Kiffness, Gerald Clark and the Deadmen, Medicine Boy, Taxi Violence, Jackal and the Wind, The Liminals, Akkedis, Early Hours, Grassy Spark, Forefront, Guy Collins, MT Seas, Southern Wild, The Oh So Serious and Jak Skandi. Keep an eye on the festival’s Facebook page for more band announcements to come in the next few weeks.

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH THE TICKETS?

To ensure that the festival stays small and select, only 2700 tickets have been made available like every year. The single tier ticket price is set at R970, which includes full access for the entire weekend (Thursday 26 January - Sunday 29 January). There are unfortunately no day passes and no under-18s will be allowed. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment and remember to bring your A-game for the ‘Anything That Floats’competition – the most innovative craft takes home a prize!

ANY COOL PARTNERSHIPS THIS YEAR?

Why, yes indeed!The Heartbreak Motelwill once again offer a luxury glamping option for festivalgoers who enjoy having access to a fully-pitched tent, linens, warm showers, a daily breakfast and 24-hour security.

Additionally, we’ve also joined forces with Generosity Water, a wonderful international initiative that seeks to provide safe drinking water for people in developing countries. For every bottle of Generosity Water purchased at Up The Creek 2017, two people in a developing country will receive water for a month. Each bottle has a QR code that can be scanned to see which community will benefit from your purchase.

GET IN TOUCH & STAY INFORMED

Follow Up The CreekonFacebook, Twitter (@Upthe_Creek) and Instagram (@upthecreek_festival) to stay up to date, and keep an eye on the website for further developments leading up to the festival. www.upthecreek.co.za

The UK’s most invigorating and rising band, Twin Atlantic, are set to release new album, GLA, on September 9th. Today, they unveil the video for new single “No Sleep”, a track already playlisted on the BBC’s national pop music station Radio 1 where it was named “Hottest Record In The World” and “Track Of The Day” by leading British music bible, Q Magazine. Last week, Zane Lowe premiered the album track “Ex El” on his Beats1 Radio show.

“No Sleep” is a punk rock song led by the guttural bass and guitar riffs of Barry McKenna and Ross McNae climaxing with vocalist Sam McTrusty’s roar of “I get no sleep” against a driving beat by drummer Craig Kneale and a wall of insomnia-inducing frustration.

In their native UK, Twin Atlantic are headlining arenas with a plethora of radio hits under their belts. Their live performances are renowned for their infectious energy. GLA was written in the band’s hometown of Glasgow, before repairing to Topanga Canyon in Los Angeles to record the album, working with Jacknife Lee (U2, Snow Patrol, Two Door Cinema Club) who also helmed their 2014 album Great Divide, which reached #6 in the UK album charts, while their dream mixer Alan Moulder (best known for his unforgettable work with Arctic Monkeys, Foals, Foo Fighters and My Bloody Valentine) came aboard to give the album the essential finishing touch. WATCH Twin Atlantic perform “No Sleep” at The Isle of Wight Festival HERE.

The songs on GLA were written in Glasgow, and the band repaired to Topanga Canyon in Los Angeles to record the album, working with Jacknife Lee (U2, SnowPatrol, Two Door Cinema Club), who had previously produced a couple of tracks for 'Great Divide'. Under his direction, they eschewed old school recording techniques, taping their parts separately. “At no point did we play together,” McTrusty says."We changed our approach and turned the idea o fa rock band upside down, conforming only to this one idea - to take back rock and roll. To give people something real again”.This change in their recording process marked the grander ambitions of the new songs, while their dream mixer Alan Moulder (best known for his unforgettable work with Arctic Monkeys, Foals, Foo Fighters and My Bloody Valentine) came aboard to give the album the essential finishing touch.

“We were inspired by classic riff-rock, but we want to make our own version of it, and inspire other people,” McTrusty explains, “We’re giving that extra bit of ourselves, and we want to give power back to rock’n’roll, to reveal itself. With ‘GLA', we have everything to lose, and nothing to prove. That’s an exciting creative place to be."

“We could never have made this album before,” adds McNae, “because we hadn’t had all our experiences, we hadn’t made all the right mistakes. Wehave finally made the album we wanted to make.”

This is the 10thinstalment of the Cape Town Folk 'n Acoustic Music Festival. 22 South African artists will perform completely acoustically in an unplugged, intimate, concert-style setting, stripped down to the essence of the songs.The evening is set to be an experience of the finest musical storytelling from the personal journeys of some of South Africa's best songwriters and musicians.

The event organiser Gavin Minter from Real Wired Music says that he is very excited about this year`s performers. “If you remember bands like Z-Astaire, Ella Mental, The Usual, Delta Blue, Sweatband, HAMMAK, Springbok Nude Girls, Just Jinjer, Zen What, and SA's most renowned guitar duo Steve Newman and Tony Cox, then this year`s festival is going to be a treat for you. We will feature all the singers from the mentioned bands, plus a few more exceptionally talented artists have been added to this year`s Winter instalment of the Cape Town Folk n Acoustic Music Festival.”

There is also rare collaboration with two legendary multiple award-winning acoustic guitarists,Steve Newman and Tony Cox, who will be performing on both nights. Cox and Newman have toured the world and played every major festival, and between them have released over 30 albums. Tony Cox says:“An acoustic guitar has to be one of the most emotively driven instruments on the planet, a small orchestra in your lap, take it anywhere, it transfixes people...”

Wendy Oldfield played at the first Cape Town Folk n Acoustic Festival in 2011. She says that she was absolutely thrilled to be asked to play again. Oldfield adds: “It is such a well run musical event and the quality of co- performers are mind blowing. Playing acoustically is quite a different experience to full band. This is where a good song stands to the test. It is quite exposing and allows for a different vocal expression.”

Wendy Oldfield.

Farryl Purkiss says that as an artist one never really truly masters an instrument. “There is always something more to learn. Some people like to think that they are leading the way when composing a song and the guitar is just following its master and filling in the blanks, but it`s the other way round in my opinion. I as a songwriter am merely a passenger, a stowaway on a ship that has a course and destination long decided before I got involved.”

Laurie Levine will be performing with Josie Field. The blues infused vocal-rock of Josie Field connects with the intimate folk, country styles of Laurie Levine to create a unique and intimate musical experience. Their new album “TigerLily” was released in 2015. Levine says: “It is rare to be on a line up with such a large array of local artists. There's something beautiful in the coming together of a collective of musicians and hearing the wonderful diversity of style and talent on offer on one stage on one night.”

James Stewart (formerly from The Usual) is looking forward to be playing acoustically. He explains: “It brings the song right back into the space it was when it was written. It’s really special to reconnect with the birth of songs in this way.”

Robin Auld says playing a stripped down set has certain practical advantages: “It's always nice to play at an event where you know the music would survive without electricity."

The fourth annual Poetry in McGregor is happening from August 26th to 28th. Feast with us on the heart’s food, the resonant human voice, the felt reality of who we are. Since ancient time our understanding of ourselves, our sense of what lies within, was said to come out of the blue: inspiration, the breath of heaven, the song of the muse, the voice of the poet.

There is a great range of poets performing at various interesting venues at this year`s event. English poetry from the young awesome talents of Elisa Galgut and Vangile Gantsho to well-known poets James Matthews, Patricia Schonstein, Kobus Moolman, Khadija Tracey Heeger and Harry Owen.In the Afrikaans section we have the heartwarming and inspiring Margot Luyt (Verse n Klink on RSG), Koos van der Merwe, Daniel Hugo, Diana Ferrus and Lara Kirsten. Last year`s winner of the Poetry Competition, Louise Westerhout will also be taking to the stage. Exciting groups that are coming are UWC poets, Lingua Franca Spoken WordMovement and Mothertongue. There are also immensely entertaining poets including Margaret Clough and Stephanie Saunders who will have you rolling in the aisles as they look at the lighter side of life. For a complete list of all the wonderful participating poets, go to: https://mcgregorpoetryfestival.blogspot.co.za/

McGregor is the perfect venue for a celebration of poetry. All the venues are in gentle walking distance from one another and include the soulful gardens of Temenos, the homely backyard D`Amphitheatre, the unique Wahnfried theatre, artist Edna Fourie`s Gallery, Flora’s Eating House and Gallery, The Green Room and The Lion House. The local social spot ‘Carol’s Pub’ will be hosting VOICES ON FIRE. While you relax and savour a local red, poets in attendance will ring a bell and read their poetry. A great way to end a stimulating and inspiring day.

As usual, a number of Open Mic sessions will take place during the “Poetry in McGregor” weekend. These sessions are hosted by Hugh Hodge (http://hahodge.blogspot.co.za/p/about-me.html) and no tickets or booking are required. Anyone wishing to read or recite their poetry is welcome – from the well-known to budding, new poets!

Open Category“Voices on Fire”Poetry Competition:Have you ever thought of writing poetry? Are you an unpublished poet? Are you over the age of 19? Then you are eligible to enter the Open Category “Voices on Fire” Poetry Competition and stand a chance of winning a trophy and a cash prize of R 7,500.00. The finalists may have the opportunity to have their poetry published in the annual “Poetry in McGregor” Anthology and their winning entries will be read during our “Poetry in McGregor” weekend.

Closing details for entries: 16h00 on Friday the 22nd JULY 2016. For more details, go to:

Whether you write academic poetry, slam, rap or haiku about how much you love coffee you and your words are welcome. Come toPOETRY in McGREGOR and enjoy a wide range of poetry from the renowned voices of some of our top poets to up and coming young ‘Voices on Fire.’ Take time out to attend our OPEN MIC sessions. Laugh and cry and be taken by surprise. Be mesmerized and amazed. Delight in what it is to be human and celebrate your love for the written word.

Accommodation:It is advised to book accommodation in advance. See our website for options.

Zimmermann in Kenia 2015 during his cycle challenge from Cairo to Cape Town.

Actor Ivan Zimmermann prepares for cycle challenge from Beijing to Istanbul (May to October 2016)

South African actor Ivan Zimmermann will depart on a cycling expedition from Beijing to Istanbul on May 14th 2016. He will be riding with 14 other cyclists that he has never met before and together they have to complete 12280km in 145 days. The travelling schedule stretches through the “Silk Route” that consists of ten countries, including China, Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Iran and Turkey. This is Zimmermann`s second similar challenge. He successfully finished a cycling trip from Cairo to Cape Town in 2015.

Zimmermann says: "I undertook this project because I realized that my goal is to live a purposeful, driven life. I cannot think of a better way to spend my time than to inspire and help others through my expeditions and adventures. Last year's bike ride from Cairo to Cape Town is by far the most challenging project I have ever undertaken.I never thought that I would miss my family, as well as the little things in life so much. For 121 nights I woke up more than 5 times every night. I never thought that I would lose so much weight. I never thought that I would have to ride a bike in 50 degrees. Or be blown off my bike by the wind. I never thought that I would ever go without a bath or shower for 8 days and I never anticipated that I will wake up in the middle of the night with hunger pains. After everyday`s hard riding, I also had to pitch my own tent – for 121 nights. It was extremely tough from beginning to end. But it was worth it. The expedition was a great success! I completed the trip and subsequently collected 4,500 cans of food for The Hanna Charity. Also, through our “Leaders Never Quit” campaign, I motivated many people to never give up. I was happy to be back home and decided to absolutely not do this again. But, three months later I was already planning the Silk Route expedition.”

The Silk Route journey will test Zimmermann and his co riders to the limit. Temperatures will range between minus 10 to 45 degrees and the heights they must drive through can range from 0 to 4500 meters above sea level. Zimmermann says: “I am excited to go further into colder, warmer, higher, lower temperatures and landscapes and meet more interesting people from diverse cultures.”

SAICA (South African Institute for Chartered Accountants) is one of the main sponsor for Zimmermann`s expedition. The “Leaders Never Quit” motivational program that forms an integral part of Zimmermann`s challenge, is a special incentive for SAICA`s students and members. One of the facets of the motivational program is a direct broadcast of the cycling expedition on www.ivanzimmermann.com. Willi Coates, Senior Executive: Brand says: “SAICA decided to sponsor Zimmermann on this journey, because to become a Chartered Accountant [CA(SA)] involves hard work and dedication, similar to the journey Zimmermann will be embarking upon. The parallel with him cycling 9 stage of harsh terrain from Beijing to Istanbul and that of our trainees completing their journey of becoming CAs(SA) is obvious to those who have traveled this road before. Furthermore, Zimmermann is undertaking this epic ride for charity. Following SAICA`s sponsorship in the 2015 Tour d` Afrique (Cape to Cairo), his contribution has been phenomenal in terms of raising funds as well as motivating our trainees. SAICA therefore decided to invest in the campaign again in 2016.”

www.feesforall.org.za - Participants can pledge through the snapscan code or the sms line via these websites - Participants can start pledging from 1 May.The winner will be announced on 15 September 2016. Says Fees For All Director, Adv. Kaiél Grobler: “We believe that Zimmermann’s courage and relentless pursuit for success, will inspire and encourage students of underprivileged backgrounds to rise above their circumstances and chase their educational dreams. The campaign aims to raise awareness and help find solutions for the many struggles students in this country face. We call on South Africans to make a donation towards the cause by pledging R30. We call on everyone to help make South Africa a better place for all.”

Innermation is the third main sponsor for the expedition. “At Innermation we create and cultivate educational environments that are optimal to influence perceptual sets. We believe that simple but innovative educational solutions, founded on uncomplicated philosophy and universal core values, reveal the “why do we do what we do.” We develop talent. We create excitement. We communicate brands. We reveal rock stars. This is what we do.” Read more about Innermation at: http://innermation.co.za

“This is a dream come true” says Zimmermann. “I am fortunate to be able to embark on such wild and wonderful adventures. Follow the journey on www.ivanzimmermann.com as well as on Twitter: @IvanZimmermann1 and on Instagram: IvanZimmermann1. The live broadcast can also be followed on Periscope: @IvanZimmermann

Trash Cabaret begun when a French Canadian nun, spun out of her robe whileguiding an egg from her head to her toe, once she held it there she kicked the egg into the air, caught in her mouth, and swallowed it down whole! This was her act, and in fact, what an act it was! Everywhere she did the act, it was met with great applause! She had many talented friends, who also loved to play. She invited them all to attend, with shows of their own to portray!

Trash Cabaret is a circus like no other. An underground gypsy contingent comprised of various performance groups - burlesque dancers, acrobats, jugglers, aerial artists, roaming characters, dancers of body and fire, and a full brass band to accompany the show. Taking the night out into a glorious party of carnival chaos!

Tickets are on Quicket, it's cheaper if you buy sooner. Early bird tickets are R100. But they run out end of March. In April they are R120. Which isn't plenty. On the day of the dreaming, theywill be slightly more. They will be R150 at the door.

If you're a Rocker and/or a Blues lover, get your groove on for electrifying Blues& Rock will join forces again at HILLCREST QUARRY in Durbanville on Saturday the 9th ofApril.

Featuring 9 Bands in a huge Marquee on a big stage with30000 watts of sonic power, this year`s event is set tobe a magnificent blast at one of the most incredible live music venues in SA. One of the highlights of the show will be the official (Cape Town) launch of Dan Patlansky's brand new album 'Introvertigo'. Patlansky says of the new album: “Fans can expect a unique brand of Blues Rock born out of guitar playing whilst striving for strong songwriting. I am very excited and proud of this album, and honestly feel this is my best release to date.” Patlansky has just completed a hugely successful2 month European Tour with the incredible Joe Satrianiand hehas gainedhuge recognition overseas including being voted as one of the Top Ten best Rock guitaristsin the world today.

Another great addition to this year`s line up is Crimson House. Grassroots, soul lifting, foot-stomping, heartmoving audio candy, built on a brotherhood that will outlive the timelessness of music they create. The music will take you back a century and right into the modern age within the same bar-line. Rooted in blues, coated in gypsy undertones, blended with early Jazz fuelled by roaring guitars, blazing Brass, sensational saxophones, shredding Banjos, & soul sweeping Harmonica's, lead by a gravel paved voice coming out of a hard worked soul.

Food Stalls, Family Entertainment and Blues Rocking Goodness will be yours for 10 hours straight.Doors open at 12h15. We also have a monstrous Lucky Draw worth nearly R24000: A Fender Stratocaster, a Huge Cash Prize and a Paul Bothner MusicVoucher will be going home to a lucky ticket holder. You'll be able to buy a lucky draw ticket at the Festival for R30 but you'll also get a Free Lucky Draw entry worth R30 with all Computicket bookings. You can collect your lucky draw ticket at the gate on presentation of your Computicket.

The Kaggen Music and Film Trust is planning a series of diverse, multi-faceted events in Cape Town in 2016.

Woodstock Live is about establishing an environment of creative expression and engagement through spontaneous and meaningful cultural conversations and innovative ideas to promote artistic integrity and fearlessness.

Various socially-focused music events consisting of a series of multi genre park festivals,a tea party for the elderly and a music festival for children will be staged at Trafalgar Park, District 6, Woodstock, throughout the year.The Woodstock Live brand is inviting Cape Town communities to connect with each other through these events.

The Launch Event

The first Woodstock Live music concert will be held on Sunday 20 March.Trafalgar Park (Corner of Searle Street and Victoria Road.)Gates open at 13h00. Concert from 14h00 to 24h00. The line up includes the following popular South African artists:

Christopher de Vries,The Kaggen Music and Film Trustsays: “As a collective we acknowledge the past and celebrate the evolution of Woodstock, striving for an inclusive approach between creative industry, local residents, businesses and communities.Our business model for Woodstock Live is based on the social enterprise model.Our first objective is to develop a sustainable model over a term and then following this phase we will aim to develop a profitable series of events.

Some of the proceeds from the series will be then be allocated to social beneficiary projects. The Kaggen Music and Film Trust, together with our social outcomes partner, The Big Issue,http://www.bigissue.co.za,will be the advisory team, responsible for the distribution of the projected revenue.We are also exploring additional areas of collaboration as we develop the partnership, for example skills share, staffing, training and music collaborations.”

Jessica Schnehage, project manager for Woodstock Live: “Woodstock Live encourages collaboration and emphasises the importance of bridging divides by bringing different cultures and genres into the same creative space.We are inspired by individuals who embrace their own individuality while contributing to those around them.”

Think cool river...think colour and cocktails…think summer….think fun! Round up your mates and gather round. The trumpeter`s cheeks are bulging – tooteretootoot! Throw in an anticipating drumro... hear hear!…..ladies and gentleman, we are jolly happy to announce the bands signed to play at Jägermeister presents Up The Creek Music Festival 2016:

We had a blast in 2015 and cannot wait to bring you more of the same music-with a-river-runs-through-it magic in 2016. We took all of your feedback into consideration and have decided to go back to our 2014 event size and will therefore only be selling 2700 full weekend tickets. Please note that 50% of the tickets are sold out, so don’t wait and be disappointed.

We also asked some of our festival goers why they keep coming back every year. Here is what they had to say:

“From the first song Up the Creek gets under your skin and nothing can keep you from coming back for more!~ Nicola Wooding from Wellington.

Jackie Barham from Knysna has been going to Up the Creek since 2008: “By far in my opinion the best festival in the country. I love seeing SA Musicians giving it their all and I love the intimacy of Up the Creek.”

Gail Robinson from Cape Town says that she has been to every Up the Creek for the past 25 years: “I keep coming back for the music – am a big SA Music fan – and of course, the beautiful venue.”

If you want to rock out in a little more comfort, then the Heartbreak Motel tented accommodation is for you. There are two options of pre-pitched tents, hot showers, toilets, buffet breakfast and other luxuries. For more info and bookings gowww.heartbreakmotel.co.za

Festival gates open at 15:00 on Thursday 28 Jan and close again at 17:00 on Sunday 31 Jan.

South Africa's Premier Blues Music Festival returns to Hillcrest Quarry in Durbanville to celebrate its 10th Birthday on Saturday 5 December 2015. Hosting 12 of the country's top Blues artists, the 2015 concert is proudly presented and brought to you by our sponsors COMBUSTION TECHNOLOGY, PAUL BOTHNER MUSIC and FENDER SA.

TMBS organiser Mike Combrinck says that he thought of the concept of starting a Blues Festival in Cape Town after seeing a Jazz&Blues Session at the late Steak and Ale in Pretoria in 2005. He says: “Good Blues shows were relatively hard to find in South Africa at the time. So in 2006, the first Table Mountain Blues Summit was held at Tafelberg Tavern in Town, showcasing 6 Blues acts to an audience of just under 450 guests. We gave our hearts and souls and boots to get this going. In 2007 Richard Pryor came aboard as a partner and we grew this little fesival into the monster it became (last year had 22 acts). Richard played a big role in the development of the Summit over the past few years, but has now stepped down as one of the organisers, due to other responsibilities. The Summit brought in more Rock and Folk Music over the last few years, but myself and friend Mike Crawford, who has now come on board, (Two Mikes don’t make a wrong) have decided to keep the Summit to its original Blues roots for our 10 Year Birthday Celebration.”

TMBS 2015 will be bringing you 12 of the blues artists that are making serious waves in the industry right. This will be a nonstop 13+ hour blues party of extreme proportions!

Doors open 10h00. First band up at 11h00.

Tickets: R195.00 – Bookings atComputicketor can purchase it at Hillcrest Quarry.Free entrance for children under 12 (must present some form of ID)

Camphill Village West Coast will be hosting their second annual music festival on 31 October. The event will start at 13H00 and run until 19H00. The line-up includes popular South African artists: Beatenberg, Just Jinjer, Ottoman Slap, Bootleggers and Swallowers of Time.

The Festival will be an outdoor concert, with a variety of great food and wine stalls. Come and join uson the beautiful countryside festival grounds for a day of good vibes and fabulous music.

James Sleigh, Managing Director at Camphill Village Westcoast says that they are excited to have Just Jinjer and Beatenberg as the headliners of this year`s Festival. Beatenberg is the fresh new face of pop music from South Africa. They won a total of 7 SAMAS in 2015 including Best Album. Just Jinjer also needs no introduction. They are South African Music Legends. Sleigh says that with names like these on the line up, Camphill Village Music Festival will hopefully grow to be a highlight on the Music Festival Calendar in the Western Cape. Add to that Ottoman Slap`s exotic flair, Bootleggers` musical mojoand Swallowers of Time`s blues-rock vibes, the Camphill Village Music Festival 2015 is set to be an unforgettable experience.

More about CamphillVillage Westcoast:

Camphill has provided a unique inclusive approach to life for Intellectually Disabled adults, for over 50 years, involving them in the activities of a thriving community. Residents live and work at Camphill. They live in group homes, run by a group home leader, and work in one of the various enterprises on the premises. The enterprises consist of a dairy, a bakery, a cosmetics workshop and a working farm. Produce from the enterprises are sold to many shops and outlets in CapeTown. The revenue generated from these sales, helps to sustain the organisation. The Music Festival is a Fundraising event to further support the Camphill Village Westcoast community.

Tickets R200 atwww.webtickets.co.za. (Free entrance for children under 4 years and R100 for children under 13.)

Scottish rockers Twin Atlantic played in South Africa for the first time at Oppikoppi The Fantastic Mr.VosVos and One Night In Cape Town in August 2015. Fans old and new loved them! Here some short media reviews & tweets from festival goers:

"Twin Atlantic proved a point at Oppikoppi. Not only are they a phenomenal recording band, but they are a powerhouse of a live act. Definitely one of the highlights of the festival!"Wayde Flowerday, SoMuchMusic.co.za

"What I loved about the Twin Atlantic show was that they engaged with the whole crowd - front to back. The show was like a journey going through energetic songs and more emotional ones. I think they now have a bunch of new SA fans!"Elsa la Cock, DirtyPinkCity Blog.

“Twin Atlantic's first performance on South African soil was definitely a memorable one. Anyone who has ever heard their music will know their catchy, sing-along tunes and seeing the band live brought their music to life. The band as a whole performed well, although it did feel as though the set was slightly rushed. Any audience interaction that happened felt slightly forced and Sam's vocals may have been impacted by the notorious Oppi dust as he seemed to struggle to hit his trademark high notes. All in all, a great performance by the Scottish rockers."Henry Marsh, DropYourDrinkblog.

‘Twin Atlantic were amazing. Twin Atlantic brought some serious energy to the James Phillip Stage on Sunday. A set filled with songs such as Yes, I Was Drunk, Free, What Is Light? Where Is Laughter and Hold On created an atmosphere where those who knew the band, could really just jam it out. For those who did not know the band before OppiKoppi, Sam McTrusty and crew definitely made them feel welcome. One of the highlights of this year's OppiKoppi.”Jeanne Mulder, Puk fm.

"Twin Atlantic played an absolutely mesmerising set that left everybody in attendance reeling for more! The accents so smooth, the guitars so tuned and the lyrics perfectly on point!"Brendan Bowie.www.samusicscene.co.za

“Truly surprised and in awe of how many song lyrics were known in this dusty little patch down at the end of Africa.”www.recordingstudios.co.za

"Twin Atlantic drew a large crowd to the James Phillips stage as they performed hits such as “Oceans”, “Brothers and sisters” and “Heart and soul”. The crowd enjoyed their energy and stage presence, which made for a memorable performance. " Elmarie Kruger, Perdeby.